How to Start a Handyman Business and Set Yourself Up for Success
You also need to draft a service agreement that will outline the terms of service you will offer to your clients. This agreement should cover all possible scenarios and clearly outline your scope of duties. This is an important way to protect yourself in the event of legal action or disputes.
Nurturing Strong Customer Relationships
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average handyman’s annual wage as $43, $180, or $20.76 per hour. But before jumping in, let’s see if the handyman business is right for you. The likelihood is that you’ll have at least a smartphone to run your small business with. The only software you’ll really need is invoicing software to get paid quickly and manage your accounts. You’ll need to practice a fair bit to hone in on your skills – but this can be done at home.
- Always give the customer a chance to inspect the work and approve it before leaving.
- That’s why you must ensure people positively promote your handyman business from day one.
- However, once your handyman business is up and running, the key is to not get 100% caught up in delivering client work.
- You need a contractor’s license in Georgia if you’re going to work on projects valued at $2500 or higher.
- Small ads in community websites and local publications should also help bring business until you’ve established a name for yourself.
What are some insider tips for jump starting a handyman business?
Apart from excessively marketing your services as a licensed contractor, there are a couple of ways that you can forge a business structure that gets noticed. That involves scoping out the handyman that is competing against you. Before venturing into the intriguing world of the handyman industry, you’ll want to make sure that this is the right business for you. Like every trade, starting your own handyman service has its upsides and downsides. Years ago and have had enough success to continue “making my living” while enjoying self employment. I recently received my license ad a residential specialty contractor, insurance and bond.
Some customers live forty miles away, while others are just five minutes away. In fact, despite the $500 limit in California, I’ve met dozens of pro handymen who are making a killing even without a license.
Essential Handyman Business Supplies and Tools
If your service area is large, you’ll need more staff, more insurance, and more tools to get the jobs done. Costs vary for handyman companies based on services offered, equipment required, and whether you base the business at home or a commercial space. Knowing your competition helps you know your own team and job requirements better.
Here’s a detailed guide on everything you need to know to launch your handyman business successfully. Networking with other businesses in the handyman industry can be a great way to get advice and support. You can network with other businesses at industry events, online forums or through social media. For example, connecting with real estate companies, is a great way for you to source new business. Check out some of these creative service business ideas to help get you started. It is important to set up accounting and bookkeeping systems from the start of your business to track your income and operating expenses.
Setting the right pricing for handyman services impacts the profitability and competitiveness of the business. Most handymen charge an hourly rate, which can vary widely based on factors such as geographic location, the complexity of services offered, and the handyman’s experience level. There are many factors that will determine the level of profitability, such as the area that the business is located in, quality of service and pricing structure. Additionally, many handyman businesses also take on more complicated home improvement projects that can be more lucrative than regular maintenance and repair jobs. A simple business plan will guide your decisions and marketing strategy as you start a profitable handyman business. Additionally, you may want to add information to help employees understand their roles and for lenders to judge whether you’re a good candidate for business financing.
How to Get a Handyman License: Steps and Requirements by State
Additionally, aside from state regulations, local city or county ordinances may also impose additional licensing or permit requirements. A prospective business owner will want to conduct detailed research or consult with local authorities to ensure full compliance with all legal requirements. Handymen will want to learn how to get a business license to make sure they’re operating legally within their jurisdiction. Other states may have more lenient regulations, offering a “handyman exemption” for smaller, less complex jobs. However, launching a successful handyman business requires more than simply being a skilled tradesperson. As any entrepreneur can attest, it requires thorough research and planning to successfully navigate the complexities of establishing and running a business.
Set Clear ExpectationsBefore starting a job, how to set up a handyman business discuss the scope of work with your client. Outline what services you will provide, estimated timelines, and pricing. Providing a detailed estimate or contract can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page. Build relationships with other local service providers, such as real estate agents, property managers, and contractors. Networking can lead to referrals and partnerships, expanding your client base.
Let’s say you get a tile installation job, and you don’t have a tile saw. Pick one up at the store while you pick up supplies for the job. Or, better yet, rent one until you are certain you will use it enough to justify owning it. When you’re ready for this step, read The Ultimate Guide To Naming Your Handyman Business.
- You can also check the U.S. government website to confirm sales tax for your state, if you’re unsure.
- A Facebook page is another way to market your handyman business to your local community because many of your future clients use it to find, research, and contact local businesses.
- That’s why you need to ensure that the services you provide are insured.
On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy. One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your handyman business is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they’re a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs. As your handyman business scales and grows, you may consider expanding your team by hiring additional specialists to join your business. However, you may also consider expanding your service offerings or even franchising your business. Depending on the nature of the services you will be offering, you may want to charge per hour, per job completed, or a fixed rate.
An hourly rate:
Organize all aspects of your business plan in one place, simplifying drafting and revisions. Keep every detail at your fingertips to ensure your plan is solid. Organize Your Financial RecordsSet up a system for organizing your financial records, including income, expenses, invoices, and receipts. Use digital folders or accounting software to categorize your records by month or type of expense. Keeping your records organized will make it easier to access information when needed and facilitate tax preparation.
These restrictions may sound very restrictive, but plenty of jobs fit within those limits—more than enough to run a profitable home repair business. However, there are usually two limitations on handymen’s services without a contractor’s license. Additionally, think about the other handyman-like service businesses, such as garage door companies, lawn care companies, locksmiths, home security installers, masons, etc. These businesses all focus on a specific service and can be very lucrative. The first step is to evaluate your current skills and decide on the services you will provide. Starting a handyman business can be profitable and fun with the right approach.